2011 Mazda 3 II Sedan (BL, facelift 2011) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Mazda 3 II Sedan (BL facelift 2011) ranges between 1185 kg to 1404 kg (approximately 2613 to 3096 lbs), depending on the specific trim and equipment level. The maximum allowable weight or gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) is between 1745 kg to 1820 kg (3847 to 4012 lbs). This means the vehicle can safely accommodate passengers and cargo within these limits, which provides a good balance of performance and efficiency while ensuring structural integrity and safety.

The Mazda 3 II Sedan (BL facelift 2011) offers a luggage capacity ranging from 335 liters to 430 liters (approximately 11.8 to 15.2 cubic feet). This spacious trunk capacity is competitive within its compact sedan class, providing enough room for everyday luggage, groceries, or travel bags. Compared to typical compact sedans, the Mazda 3 stands out with its flexible cargo capacity, contributing to its practicality for both urban and suburban usage.

The ride height or ground clearance of the Mazda 3 II Sedan (BL facelift 2011) varies between 119 mm to 155 mm (approximately 4.7 to 6.1 inches). This ground clearance allows the car to navigate most city roads and relatively smooth rural terrains comfortably. While it may not be designed for off-road driving, its clearance is sufficient for speed bumps, driveway ramps, and uneven surfaces generally encountered during daily driving, balancing sporty handling with practical usability.

The Mazda 3 II Sedan (BL facelift 2011) comes equipped with tire sizes of 205/55 R16 and 205/50 R17. Corresponding rim sizes include 16-inch rims and 17-inch rims with specifications of 7J x 17. Larger rims, like the 17-inch versions, typically offer enhanced grip and sportier handling characteristics, while the 16-inch rims generally provide a slightly more comfortable ride due to the larger tire sidewall absorbing road imperfections better. These options cater to different driver preferences blending style and comfort.

Yes, the Mazda 3 II Sedan fits comfortably inside a standard home garage. Given its maximum length of about 4595 mm (180.9 inches) and width of 1755 mm (69.1 inches) without mirrors, it fits well within the typical garage dimensions, which usually accommodate vehicles up to around 2.4 meters wide (including mirrors) and 5 meters long. However, with mirrors open (width 2002 mm or 78.8 inches), care should be taken in narrower garages. Overall, the car is very practical for residential parking.

Compared to the predecessor Mazda 3 I Sedan (BK), the Mazda 3 II Sedan (BL facelift 2011) is slightly larger and heavier. The BL model is longer by approximately 100 mm, offering more interior space and a more elegant stance. It also has a slightly wider body, providing enhanced cabin comfort. Weight-wise, the facelifted BL version has an increased curb weight range up to 1404 kg compared to the BK’s lighter variants, largely due to added features, safety technologies, and structural reinforcements. Overall, the BL generation demonstrates Mazda's progression towards a more refined, spacious, and safe vehicle.

When compared to similar compact sedans from competitors like the Honda Civic, Ford Focus, and Volkswagen Golf (sedan variant) from the same period, the Mazda 3 II Sedan (BL facelift 2011) holds its own with slightly longer length and competitive width. For example, the Honda Civic sedan around that time measured roughly 4585 mm in length and about 1775 mm in width, making the Mazda 3 roughly comparable but with a sportier design approach. Its weight and luggage capacity also align closely with competitors, emphasizing Mazda's balance between sporty dynamics and practicality in the compact sedan segment.

The Mazda 3 II Sedan (BL facelift 2011) brought a number of significant updates over its predecessor, including more refined styling with sleeker front and rear fascias, enhanced interior materials, and improved ride quality. Technological upgrades included better infotainment options and available safety features like stability control systems. Engine options also saw enhancements for improved efficiency and performance. The facelift emphasized Mazda’s Kodo design philosophy's early application, giving the car a sportier and more modern look, appealing to buyers seeking a stylish yet practical compact sedan.

The Mazda 3 II Sedan (BL facelift 2011) offers a ground clearance ranging from 119 mm to 155 mm (4.7 to 6.1 inches), giving it a low center of gravity which benefits handling stability and responsiveness, particularly on paved roads. The rim sizes available are 16 inches and 17 inches (7J x 17 for the latter), paired respectively with 205/55 R16 and 205/50 R17 tires. The larger 17-inch rims improve cornering and provide a sportier feel, while the 16-inch setup tends to enhance ride comfort by better absorbing road irregularities. Together, these features balance sporty performance with everyday driving comfort.